SEAN IN CONCERT

In his show at Joe's Pub, Broadway power belter Sean McDermott electrified the stage, performing with the energy of ball lightning from his opening to his encore. The dazzling show, brilliantly directed by Richard Jay-Alexander, had McDermott's soaring tenor rocking the rafters and the SRO audience screaming for more. This is a voice and performer to be reckoned with. He has played leading roles in "Miss Saigon", "Falsettos", "Grease", and "Starlight Express". With the success of this cabaret concert, he would be wise to establish himself as a solo artist.

McDermott's dynamic rock belt fired arrangements of "If I Were a Bell," from "Guys and Dolls," and on two songs from "Hair": "Easy to Be Hard" and "Aquarius." Despite a confusing apology for the song, he sang "This Is the Moment," from "Jekyll & Hyde." This was so strong, it could power a rocket to the moon. Rendering other renditions moot (except for Anthony Warlow's), it gave McDermott his finest moment.

Opening with a potent "Use What You've Got" from "The Life", (replete with a "Star Search" ending!) he then offered a salsa version of Allan Chapman's risque "Como te Gusto Mi Pinga," that had the room roaring with laughter as he caroused about the stage thrusting his pelvis (a la Ricky Martin) in tight pants and a form-fitting  designer shirt. Such frivolity and chutzpah provided the evening's comic relief. Could he be cabaret's answer to Ricky Martin? Has he got the same charisma and winning stage persona of a star? The answer is Yes.

Director Jay-Alexander, who has worked with other cabaret artists, deserves kudos for his imaginative presentation of this singer. Too many performers worry only about memorizing songs and patter, paying minimal attention to the rest of the package. In this case, the director framed the performer, creating a bravura show.

Every once in awhile I experience a thrilling talent with unlimited potential new to the cabaret scene. McDermott is among those performers destined to go to the top of his field. He has the voice, the looks - and the presence of a star."

-John Hoglund, Back Stage

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